Ecosystems around the world are at risk due to the spread of invasive species, it is our job to protect them by taking personal biosecurity precautions.

Each ecosystem is comprised of a unique set of species: plant, fungi, insect, bird, and the list goes on. Introducing species from other parts of the world that don’t belong in an environment can cause major damages and even local extinctions. As climatic conditions begin to change invasive species are seen as a top global threat to native biodiversity of ecosystems. Unfortunately, this trend has no indication of slowing down and humans are seen to be the main cause. Growing tourism, international settlement, resource extraction, and changing climate leaves ecosystems even more at risk of biological invasion by invasive species. Personal biosecurity can help.

It is really hard to remove invasive species once introduced, therefore the most effective method of stopping this trend is to prevent the introduction of potentially harmful invasive species. Preserving our local and global environment is essential to maintaining healthy habitats for all living species, including humans. Luckily there are ways that we as individuals can help prevent invasives from spreading using simple precautionary measures.

 Video about biosecurity in the Arctic

There are simple steps to take in order to assure that you don’t accidentally bring an invasive species with you as you travel. Brush, wash, and vacuum all your clothes, shoes, bags, luggage, and equipment before leaving home.

Once invasive species are established, removing them is a costly and multifaceted task that takes meticulous planning and execution. That is why the first and most effective approach should be prevention. Taking personal biosecurity precautions can eliminate the spread of invasive species, tackling the root cause of a global environmental issue. Do what you can by always remembering to wash, brush, and vacuum clothes, shoes, and equipment before traveling.

Credit: Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA) in cooperation with the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of Finland.

Feature photo: Invasive plants such as pampas grass displace native plants and create habitats that are lower in biodiversity.
Credit: coniferconifer